ACA, AICA sign MoU to strengthen Africa-India cashew trade

The African Cashew Alliance (ACA) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the All India Cashew Association (AICA) to deepen collaboration and promote transparency across the cashew value chain.

The agreement was formalised during the 2nd AICA Cashew Convention in Mahabalipuram, India.

ACA Board President Ibrahim Sanfo and AICA President Pham Van Cong signed the agreement, which aims to address key industry challenges and strengthen the growing trade relationship between Africa and India.

The MoU outlines cooperation in areas such as quality standards for raw cashew nuts (RCN), dispute resolution mechanisms, trade facilitation, advocacy and enhanced information sharing. Both parties acknowledged the critical role of mutual collaboration in ensuring a more transparent and sustainable cashew industry.

“There has always been a cordial relationship between ACA and AICA. We hold great mutual respect and have already worked together in various capacities. This MoU now formalises that partnership and defines a framework for deeper engagement,” said Mr. Sanfo.

Mr. Cong expressed confidence in the MoU’s potential to streamline trade relations while protecting the interests of industry stakeholders. “We believe this agreement will allow both parties to address shared challenges more effectively and advance the cashew industry’s long-term interests,” he noted.

India remains the world’s largest cashew market, importing more than one million tonnes of RCN annually – primarily from Africa, which accounts for over 57% of global supply. This agreement’s signing reflects the growing strategic importance of Africa-India trade in the sector.

Founded in 2006, ACA represents nearly 130 member companies involved in cashew production, processing, trading and international marketing. The alliance is committed to promoting a globally competitive African cashew industry through advocacy, capacity building and market development.

AICA, established in 2023, is a federation of state-level cashew processors, producer groups, buyers’ associations and other stakeholders within India’s cashew ecosystem. Headquartered in New Delhi, the association aims to unify India’s cashew industry under a single platform to improve coordination and competitiveness.

In a related development, ACA is calling for a broader partnership between Africa and India that goes beyond RCN trade to include long-term investments and joint industry development.

Speaking at the 2nd AICA Cashew Convention in Mahabalipuram, India, ACA Board President Ibrahim Sanfo underscored the need for deeper collaboration during a panel discussion on securing raw cashew supplies from Africa.

He noted that strong demand from India and Vietnam benefits farmers by raising prices, but the trend also creates challenges for local processors who struggle to access affordable RCN.

He advocated partnerships that support technology transfer, industrial investment and clearer trade frameworks.

“Memorandums of understanding between African nations and Indian buyers can improve trading transparency and promote mutual growth,” he said.

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